NBA Free Agents 2014: Carmelo Anthony Willing to Change Playing Style If Phil Jackson Asks

By Paul John Rivera| Mar 18, 2014

Carmelo Anthony has been saying that his main priority is to re-sign with the New York Knicks and Phil Jackson's arrival seems to have improved the team's chances of keeping their superstar forward.

In an interview with ESPN New York, Anthony sounded like he is already anticipating remaining in the Big Apple next season, saying that he is willing to do whatever it takes to win his first NBA title with the Knicks.

"I'm willing to do whatever," Anthony said. "As long as it's gonna put me in a position to win, I'm willing to do whatever. I'm not sold or stuck on my play."

Anthony, who is known for his high-scoring acts, said that he is also willing to change his playing style if incoming Knicks president Phil Jackson asks him to, and if it will put him in a better position to finally bag his first championship ring.

"What I've been able to do these past 10-11 years has gotten me at where I am right now," Anthony said. "If Phil wants to come in and change that this late in my career, if it's going to help me win a championship, I'm with it."

The 29-year-old forward, who is averaging 28.0 points and 8.3 rebounds per game this season, will become an unrestricted free agent this summer.

But while the Knicks have the upper hand since they can offer the biggest contract to Anthony, the 11-year-veteran made it clear that his chances of winning a title will be the main factor in determining where he will play next season.

The Knicks have been underperforming all season long, but Anthony said that Jackson's arrival will lead to major changes to the team.

"As far as knowing what it takes to win, Phil is the best to ever do it," Anthony said. "So for me to be able to have the opportunity and have him by my side, for him to teach me, you know, because I'm still willing to learn the game of basketball."

The Knicks are expected to introduce Jackson as the team's new president in a press conference on Tuesday.

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